Listen to Your Heart

SLUCare’s one-hour heart screenings begin March 7

ST. LOUIS - Is your heart healthy? It never hurts to check, and now it's easier than ever with SLUCare's one-hour heart screenings for individuals on the go.

Jeanne Lawo, R.N., M.S.N., conducts a cardiovascular assessment.

According to the American Heart Association, an estimated one in three American adults has at least one type of cardiovascular disease with an average of 2,200 Americans dying of heart disease each day. These numbers are staggering, says Jeanne Lawo, R.N., M.S.N., clinical manager at University Club Tower.

"Early identification of cardiac risk factors leads to early intervention and treatment, reducing your overall risk of having a cardiac event," Lawo says. "SLUCare's cardiac screenings are a convenient way to identify your risk factors. You can schedule a screening early in the morning on the way to work, and receive a complete cardiac risk assessment with a consultation by a cardiac nurse within an hour."

SLUCare's cardiology practice will offer the one-hour heart screenings from 7 to 10 a.m. for eight consecutive Mondays starting March 7. The screenings will be held at the SLUCare practice in the University Club Towers, 1034 South Brentwood Blvd., Suite 1130, across from the St. Louis Galleria.

Slots for screenings are limited, so reservations are required. To schedule an appointment call (314) 977-4440.

During the assessment, a nurse will conduct a cholesterol test and measure blood pressure, fasting glucose, body mass index (BMI) and abdominal girth to create an individualized, comprehensive picture of patients' heart disease risk. The assessment also includes an electrocardiogram test, which is read by a SLUCare cardiologist.

Participants also will receive a print out of the assessment and follow-up consultation with a health care professional. Because fasting is required, participants will be served a healthy continental breakfast after the screening. The cost is $45 and may be paid with a flex-plan spending account.

"Knowing your risk factors and numbers is the first step you can take to promote heart health. However, there are also lifestyle changes every person can practice to decrease their chances of having a heart attack or other cardiac event," Lawo says. "By exercising regularly, making regular check-ups with a physician, eating more whole grains, fruits and vegetables, and not smoking, you can greatly reduce your odds of developing heart disease."

SLUCare, the physician practice of Saint Louis University School of Medicine, consists of physicians, nurse practitioners, medical assistants and related professionals who provide high-quality care for patients locally, regionally and nationally. SLUCare is the only academic medical practice in St. Louis fully accredited by the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care Inc. This accreditation is a voluntary process through which the quality of SLUCare services and performance is measured against nationally recognized standards. More information is available at www.slucare.edu.